Italian Professor Strengthens Research Ties at UKZN

Italian Professor Strengthens Research Ties at UKZN

The Discipline of Marketing and Supply Chain Management in UKZN’s School of Management, IT and Governance (SMIG) recently hosted Professor Marco Centorrino of the University of Messina, Italy as part of the Erasmus+ Programme, a European Union programme for education, training, youth and sport.

Centorrino is an associate professor of Sociology of Communication who has been a key member of the Scientific Committee of the Italian Association of Sociology of Communication. He has led various research initiatives investigating the role of digital technologies in contemporary art consumption, artificial intelligence and knowledge transfer. His current research delves into the metaverse, examining its impact on society and the integration of digital scent technology into cyber-physical systems.

His visit fostered valuable connections with academic peers in the Discipline of Marketing and Supply Chain Management with future collaborations aimed at creating joint research projects, promoting deeper scientific co-operation between the University of Messina and UKZN. He engaged in discussions with staff on the Durban and Pietermaritzburg campuses, laying the groundwork for future staff and student exchanges, as well as broader research partnerships.

Centorrino also delivered a thought-provoking lecture titled, “Metaverse and New Models of Consumption to Marketing and Supply Chain Management Students”. His presentation highlighted the metaverse as the evolving frontier of digital spaces, offering boundless opportunities in social, economic, technological and recreational domains. He outlined how technological advancements are shaping this virtual environment and explored how it could redefine consumer behaviour and consumption practices.

Further cementing his involvement, Centorrino co-chaired sessions at the College of Law and Management Studies’ Research Day, contributing his expertise to the University’s academic initiatives.

His visit marks a significant step towards strengthening international collaboration and advancing research in cutting-edge areas like the metaverse and digital technologies at UKZN.

Words: NdabaOnline

Photograph: Supplied